Sulphur dioxide
(SO2)
Sulphur dioxide is a gas at normal temperature
and pressure. When released into the atmosphere
SO2 readily dissolves in water and is oxidised
to form sulphuric acid (which falls back
to earth as acid rain)
Main Sources
The major source of SO2 comes from the combustion
of sulphur containing fuels (mainly coal
and heavy oils) involved in power generation.
Health Risks
People who suffer from asthma and chronic
lung disease may be particularly affected
by SO2 as it causes constriction of the
airways.
|
